President Trump’s travel ban may endanger thousands of Afghans who assisted U.S. forces and are awaiting entry into the United States. Military veterans and nonprofit organizations like No One Left Behind are urgently working to bring these allies to safety before new restrictions take effect. The situation remains critical as many Afghans face potential retribution from the Taliban while waiting for their Special Immigrant Visas to be processed.
The recent travel ban imposed by President Trump has left the fate of countless Afghans who assisted U.S. forces uncertain. Many military veterans are urgently working to facilitate the evacuation of these allies before further restrictions limit their entry into the United States. The nonprofit No One Left Behind has mobilized significant resources to ensure these individuals are not left behind amid potential retribution from the Taliban.
In an executive order issued shortly after his inauguration, President Trump directed cabinet officials to create a list of countries that may face entry restrictions based on insufficient vetting. Supporters of Afghan allies have intensified their efforts as the deadline for this list approaches, emphasizing the urgent need for swift resolution in these individuals’ cases.
Andrew Sullivan, executive director of No One Left Behind, reported that the organization is working tirelessly to secure flights and funding for Afghan allies in peril. Despite the U.S. military’s successful evacuation of 78,000 Afghans during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, many others remain stranded, waiting for their Special Immigrant Visa applications to be processed in neighboring countries.
Historically, President Trump has placed restrictions on nationals from several majority Muslim countries. If Afghanistan is added to this travel ban, numerous Afghans who aided the U.S. could face indefinite obstruction in their attempts to seek refuge. Previous executive actions also halted funding for refugee resettlement, complicating the situation for those already cleared to enter the United States.
The organization No One Left Behind has transitioned from supporting Afghan families post-arrival to urgently fundraising for their immediate transport to the U.S. Since the Special Immigrant Visa program began in 2009, around 37,000 Afghans have received visas. However, threats from the Taliban put their lives at significant risk, especially for those still awaiting travel.
Amid these changes, several nonprofit organizations have experienced funding interruptions due to the administration’s recent policies. Many Afghan allies, now facing insecurity in their home country, find themselves in a precarious position. Andrew Sullivan stressed the gravity of the situation, indicating that returning to Afghanistan would be tantamount to a death sentence for these individuals.
Aman Jafari, who served as an interpreter for U.S. Navy Seals, described his desperate situation after the ban disrupted his travel plans. However, with the help of No One Left Behind, he was able to arrive in Portland, Oregon, with his family. The organization is committed to ensuring that Afghan allies can relocate safely and find necessary support after their arrival in the United States.
No One Left Behind has collaborated with community organizations to provide transitional support for Afghan families, addressing critical needs like housing. Jafari’s family is currently residing in temporary accommodation with assistance from local networks, illustrating the impact of collective efforts in aiding these allies as they begin a new chapter in America.
The travel ban initiated by President Trump poses significant threats to Afghan allies who have supported U.S. efforts in Afghanistan. Urgent initiatives by organizations like No One Left Behind are critical in providing the necessary assistance for these individuals to evacuate before more stringent policies take effect. As the situation evolves, collaboration among veteran groups, nonprofits, and community supporters illustrates the commitment to protecting those who risked their lives for the United States. It is imperative that Afghan allies receive the safety and support they need to rebuild their lives in a new homeland.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
